Message to You Rudy

The Specials

About Message to You Rudy

"A Message to You, Rudy" is a 1967 rocksteady song by Dandy Livingstone. Originally entitled "Rudy, A Message to You", the song later achieved broader success when, in 1979, The Specials' cover reached number 10 in the UK Singles Chart. The recording was produced by Elvis Costello. Veteran trombone player Rico Rodriguez played on both Livingstone's and The Specials' versions.

Year:: 1994
: 71 Views

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The Specials

The Specials (sometimes called The Special AKA ) are an English 2 Tone ska revival band formed in 1977 in Coventry, England. Their music combines a "danceable ska and rocksteady beat with punk's energy and attitude", and had a "more focused and informed political and social stance" than other ska groups. The band wore mod-style "1960s period rude boy outfits (pork pie hats, tonic and mohair suits, and loafers)." In 1980, the song "Too Much Too Young", the lead track on their The Special AKA Live! EP, reached number one in the UK. In 1981, the unemployment-themed single "Ghost Town" also hit number one in the UK Singles Chart. After seven consecutive UK Top 10 singles between 1979 and 1981, the band broke up. Their 1983 song "Free Nelson Mandela" was a No. 9 U… more »

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13 facts about this song

Band Formation "Message to You Rudy" was created by The Specials, a band that was originally formed in Coventry, England, in 1977.
Song Origin Its roots date back to 1967. The song was originally performed by Jamaican singer Dandy Livingstone and was covered by The Specials twelve years later.
Musical Genre The Specials and their version of "Message to You Rudy" were instrumental in popularizing the Two-Tone genre, a blend of ska, punk rock, and new wave.
Album Debut The song debuted on their self-titled 1979 album, “Specials”, which was produced by Elvis Costello.
Chart Performance The Specials' version reached number 10 on the UK Singles Chart in 1979, making it one of their most successful releases.
Instrumental Features The song features a horn section and distinctive trombone solo which is one of the standout elements of the track.
Significance in Pop Culture "A Message to You Rudy" has been included on film soundtracks, in television advertisements, and even in video games, reflecting its enduring popularity.
Featured Artists The Specials' version includes Rico Rodriguez, a famous trombone player from Jamaica, who contributed to the band's unique sound.
Song Meaning The song is interpreted as a wake-up call to youth, warning them about the dangers of being idle and wasting life away.
Cover Versions It has been covered by several other artists and bands, evidencing its timeless appeal and its influence in the music scene.
Game Appearance The Specials' "Message to You Rudy" appears in several video games, including the popular football game, FIFA 20.
Sports Adoption Football clubs have also adopted it. The fans of Bradford City adopted the song as their unofficial anthem in their 2012/13 season Capital One Cup Run.
Live Performances Despite numerous lineup changes over the years, "A Message to You Rudy" remains a staple in The Specials' live performances.

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"Message to You Rudy Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 3 May 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/1296141/The+Specials/Message+to+You+Rudy>.

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